Brisbane head into their derby against the Dolphins knowing only victory will do.
The Broncos must beat Wayne Bennett’s side for the fourth successive time to ensure their hopes of qualifying for the top eight make it through until the last round of the regular season.
If they manage to win at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday afternoon, they will be within touching distance of qualifying for the finals despite what has been a troubling campaign.
The Broncos must then face Melbourne in Round 27 needing another two competition points to possibly climb up the ladder and finish in eighth spot.
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Brisbane Broncos hit with bad news ahead of vital Dolphins clash
The Storm have already been assured of the minor premiership after Penrith’s late wobble with Craig Bellamy taking advantage of the club’s position by resting a host of stars this week.
Jahrome Hughes, Harry Grant and Eli Katoa are amongst those who have been rested for the trip to Townsville to take on North Queensland.
However, while the Cowboys have been handed a dream scenario against the ladder-leading outfit, Kevin Walters side won’t be afforded the same luxury.
"At this stage, we'll be playing our best team against the Broncos," Melbourne’s General Manager of Football, Frank Ponissi, told SEN’s Breakfast with Pat & Heals.
"Certainly, the players who are not playing this weekend will definitely play, we wouldn't go into finals on the back of two weeks' rest."
Brisbane are set to get one of their stars back from injury this week with Payne Haas firming for a return.
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The forward suffered a foot issue against Gold Coast in Round 22 with initial fears his season could have been over.
However, he may have managed to get back on deck for his side’s desperate charge at the top eight, while Reece Walsh’s situation remains uncertain.
The fullback sustained a fractured hand during the Broncos' win over the Cowboys earlier this month.
